The news of the Edinburgh plans emerged 24 hours after Aberdeen FC revealed that they are in discussions with their local council about becoming tenants at a new stadium near their present Pittodrie home.

Hearts and Hibs have struggled financially in recent seasons and, although Hearts are
beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel, Hibs are being forced to
offload players such as captain John O'Neil.

Robinson said: "Our need to move is well known.

"Apart from the potential financial benefits a move would bring, Tynecastle
does not meet Uefa requirements.

"We are able to operate under derogation at present, but Tynecastle is too
enclosed ever to meet Uefa's requirements.

"We have looked systematically at sites in conjunction with City of Edinburgh
Council.

"One by one, these have been ruled out. The site at Straiton is the site
which best meets our needs.

"It makes perfect sense to work in partnership on this with Hibernian and
with both local authorities who are keen to be involved."

Relations between Hearts and Hibs have improved

Petrie, though, has sounded a note of caution over the move.

"Our position is different from that of Hearts," he said. "Our ground complies
with the standards set down by Uefa.

"We are only prepared to consider a move if it puts us in a much stronger
financial position.

"If we can exchange Easter Road and the mortgages associated with the stadium
for access to another modern stadium and have no debt, reduced running costs,
greater opportunities to generate revenues and have cash in the bank, I think it
is an option well worth exploring.

"There will inevitably be people who feel strongly about any move
away from our traditional home and I respect that point of view.

"All I ask is that people are prepared to have a mature debate on the issues
and to consider the benefits of such a move."